Parading with Pride for ATC Sunday

Celebrating the 79th anniversary of the formation of the ATC, Cadets from across Kent came together to parade through central London.

Cadets from across Kent joined the 5 other LaSER Wings in central London today to mark the 79th anniversary of the formation of the corps.

This year the parade was led by 1312 (Southend on Sea) Squadron’s marching band with the Region Banner being carried by CWO Owen Morgan from 1483 (Brentwood) Squadron. Meanwhile for Kent Wing, 2230 (Sittingbourne) Squadron had the honour of carrying the Wing Banner.

The parade was made up of nearly 500 cadets from across Essex, Kent, London, Middlesex, Surrey and Sussex; marching down Kingsway to the Central Church of the Royal Air Force, St Clement Danes.

I was nervous but excited about the parade. The best bit was being part of a big marching parade – being a cadet is like being part of a team

Cdt Thompson, 2427 (Biggin Hill) Squadron

I absolutely enjoyed every bit of St Clements Danes, the church was very beautiful and the design was glorious. I also got to meet and other people from different regions and the diversity was amazing. If I could go again, I would certainly go again.

Cadet Gbajobi, 402 (Gravesend) Squadron

The Parade was followed by a service of thanksgiving and dedication, conducted by Padre David Osborn, the Resident Chaplain, as well as the Region Chaplain, the Reverend Canon David Nason. During which cadets gave readings and also performed as part of musical and lyrical performances.

Today I felt more like an air cadet than I ever have – after only just passing out of recruit flight. It was my first Parade and I felt both excited and surprised. I think the best part was sizing and being the (last) 91st cadet. The thing I enjoy most about ATC is the opportunities we have given to us. I also want to say I recommend the Parade to all cadets. If anyone is considering going next year I think you definitely should.

Cadet William Cox – 2427 (Biggin Hill) Squadron

Our first lesson was given by Cadet Warrant Officer Darius Zargaran of 2531 (Woodham Ferrers) Squadron and our second lesson given by Cadet Warrant Officer Emelia Jones of 1483 (Brentwood) Squadron.

Following a hymn, our very own Reverend Clifford Goble took the congregation through prayers, assisted by 3 cadets from the wing, FS Faulkner of 1051 (Dartford), Cpl Killeen of 228 (Bromley) and FS Slade of 173 (Orpington).

The atmosphere of today’s parade was ecstatic, the bang of the bass drum in the band flowed through every cadet whilst marching, giving them excitement and adrenaline to show to the public of London what we do as Air Cadets. The service was thoughtful yet lively, as cadets from all of the London and South East Region came together to celebrate the 79th anniversary of our glorious organisation

Flight Sergeant Faulkner, 1051 (Dartford ) Squadron

Visiting from RAF Brize Norton was Reverend (Squadron Leader) Chrissie Lacey who gave an energetic sermon about building trust by linking back to CWO Jones’ reading (John 2:1–2:11).

It was a really good day and the marching was on point this year. The Church Service was different but engaging with the role play.
I like being an Air Cadet because of the opportunities we are given to try new things.’

Flight Sergeant Cloke, 354 (Dover) Squadron

To conclude the service, cadets from 329 (Finsbury) Squadron sung a couple of songs; “Home” by Brian McKnight as well as “He Still Loves Me” from Fighting Temptations.